Next time you’re in Las Vegas wander to the south end of the Strip to the Pinball Hall of Fame! This is a hands-on museum near Mandalay Bay is the most fun you can have playing a game in Sin City where you CAN NOT win a jackpot! This huge collection of playable pinball machines opened in February of 2006 and is a nonprofit operation run by Tim Arnold, who is a veteran arcade operator that used to run “Pinball Pete’s” in East Lansing, Michigan.
Step into the Pinball Hall of Fame, situated on the iconic Las Vegas Strip, just across from the renowned “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign and in close proximity to Mandalay Bay. This newly erected standalone structure serves as a dedicated museum spanning an impressive 25,000 square feet, solely devoted to the world of pinball.
Open every day of the week, from Sunday to Thursday, 10 am to 9 pm, and extending its hours until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, the Pinball Hall of Fame beckons visitors to immerse themselves in its captivating realm. Amidst the backdrop of Las Vegas’ penchant for the eccentric and unique, alongside attractions like the Neon Museum and the Clown Factory, stands the enigmatic Pinball Hall of Fame.
Curiosity piqued, one may wonder: what exactly does this establishment entail, and why does it hold such reverence? This pinball museum emerges as a testament to the passion and dedication of the city’s Pinball Collectors Club members, who have united to assemble and showcase the most extensive collection of pinball machines globally, accessible to all. Established as a not-for-profit corporation, its mission is clear: to preserve and celebrate the legacy of pinball.
The impressive array of games, spanning from the 1950s to the 1990s, belongs to esteemed club member Tim Arnold. Predominantly featuring machines from the golden eras of pinball— the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s— the museum offers a nostalgic journey through the history of this beloved pastime. Here, visitors won’t find any “ticket spitters” or modern gaming distractions; instead, they’ll encounter pure, unadulterated pinball alongside a selection of classic arcade novelties.
Furthermore, as a non-profit entity, the Pinball Hall of Fame allocates excess revenues towards supporting non-denominational charitable causes, embodying a commitment to giving back to the community. In essence, the Pinball Hall of Fame stands as a testament to the enduring allure of this timeless game, inviting enthusiasts and novices alike to experience the magic of pinball in its purest form.